Here's a thought. A number of designs have used external wing ribs to stiffen the wing a simplify construction. Best known is probably the Thorp T-211 Sky Scooter, though I am partial to the Emigh A2 Trojan myself.
Is there a way to use external ribs for a truly simplified wing construction? I have in mind a jig in which metal sheets would be "flanged" along the edges or a pre-preg composite sheet formed in a similar way to make sections of a constant-chord wing. The modular wing sections would then be riveted or bonded along the flanges to create the wing skin and ribs simultaneously I could even imagine something similar with plywood sheets and external spruce cap strips.
Pros and cons? Feedback welcome.
Cheers,
Matthew
Is there a way to use external ribs for a truly simplified wing construction? I have in mind a jig in which metal sheets would be "flanged" along the edges or a pre-preg composite sheet formed in a similar way to make sections of a constant-chord wing. The modular wing sections would then be riveted or bonded along the flanges to create the wing skin and ribs simultaneously I could even imagine something similar with plywood sheets and external spruce cap strips.
Pros and cons? Feedback welcome.
Cheers,
Matthew
